Modular components, systems, and methods for disinfecting objects

ABSTRACT

Systems, apparatus, and methods are described for a disinfecting system formed of a plurality of modular units, wherein each modular unit is (1) coupleable to at least one other modular unit from the plurality of modular units and (2) includes an energy source from a plurality of energy sources. The plurality of energy sources can be configured to provide energy having an intensity capable of disinfecting a surface of the object located in a disinfecting area.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of International Patent ApplicationNo. PCT/US2019/038231, filed Jun. 20, 2019, titled “MODULAR COMPONENTS,SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR DISINFECTING OBJECTS,” which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/687,477, filed Jun. 20, 2018,titled “MODULAR COMPONENTS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR DISINFECTINGOBJECTS,” the disclosures of each of which is incorporated by referenceherein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to modular components, systems,and methods for disinfecting objects. More specifically, the presentdisclosure relates to disinfecting structures formed of modular unitsthat include energy sources, such as light sources capable of emittingultraviolet (UV) light, which can be used to disinfect objects,including equipment within a medical facility.

BACKGROUND

Disinfection of objects and spaces can reduce the transmission ofpathogens. In medical facilities, disinfection of equipment,instruments, and other objects is important to prevent the spread ofillnesses between individuals. Disinfection can be accomplished using,for example, UV light or other energy sources and/or disinfectingagents.

The effectiveness of a disinfection system can depend on the physicalsetting and/or method of disinfection. For example, with UVdisinfection, it has been shown that intensity, proximity, and line ofsight affect the ability of UV light emitted from a disinfection systemto effectively eliminate pathogens on equipment and/or within spaces.But many existing UV disinfection systems, once installed within amedical setting, are stationary. For example, UV disinfection stationsfor disinfecting publicly-used equipment are described by Taylor et al.in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,791,044 and 8,536,541, the disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. The stationary unitsdescribed in these patents are particularly useful for disinfectingmobile equipment, such as shopping carts, wheelchairs, gurneys, etc.Because the units are stationary, however, the units may have limitedapplications, e.g., be designed for a specific space and/or type ofequipment. When changes occur with the space and/or equipment, thedisinfection units may need to be manually moved, adapted, or replaced.

In addition, existing systems capable of disinfecting larger scaleobjects and/or spaces may have dimensions that make them difficult totransport and deploy onsite. For example, such systems may havedimensions larger than standard size doorways and/or openings within amedical facility, and therefore require onsite construction and/ordisassembly and reassembly to get through doorways and/or openings. Oncethe disinfection systems are assembled within a room or area, thesystems may have limited mobility and/or adaptability. For example, suchsystems may be formed of a single, unitary structure that requires theentire system to be replaced (or a large portion of the system to bereplaced) when individual, smaller components fail or requirereplacement over time. Such systems may also be difficult to move due totheir large size and/or weight, be difficult to modify based on changesto equipment being disinfected and/or changes to the onsite location ofthe system, etc. These limitations and others can lead to significantcosts, including downtime costs when a system is being installed,repaired, modified, and/or moved, and associated labor costs.

SUMMARY

Systems, apparatus, and methods described herein can overcome some ofthe disadvantages associated with existing disinfection systems. Inparticular, systems, apparatus, and methods described herein relate todisinfection systems having modular components.

In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a plurality of wallscollectively defining a chamber sized to receive an object, where eachwall from a set of walls from the plurality of walls is formed of aplurality of modular units, and each modular unit from the plurality ofmodular units is (1) coupleable to at least one other modular unit fromthe plurality of modular units and (2) includes an energy source from aplurality of energy sources. The at least one energy source from theplurality of energy sources can be configured to provide energy havingan intensity capable of disinfecting a surface of the object when theobject is received within the chamber.

In some embodiments, a kit includes components that can be assembledinto a disinfection device. The kit can include a plurality of wallsthat can be assembled to collectively define a chamber sized to receivean object, where each wall from a set of walls from the plurality ofwalls is formed of a plurality of modular units, and each modular unitfrom the plurality of modular units is (1) coupleable to at least oneother modular unit from the plurality of modular units and (2) includesan energy source from a plurality of energy sources. The at least oneenergy source from the plurality of energy sources can be configured toprovide energy having an intensity capable of disinfecting a surface ofthe object when the object is received within the chamber.

In some embodiments, a method includes moving a plurality of modularunits from a first location outside of an enclosed space to a secondlocation inside the enclosed space through an opening, in which eachmodular unit from the plurality of modular units is sized to fit throughthe opening and includes an energy source; and assembling the pluralityof modular units to form a structure that defines a chamber sized toreceive an object, with each modular unit from the plurality of modularunits arranged such that the energy source of that modular unit isdisposed within the chamber and is configured to emit energy into thechamber to disinfect a surface of the object when the object is receivedwithin the chamber.

In some embodiments, a method includes positioning an object in achamber of a disinfecting device including a portion formed from aplurality of modular units, the plurality of modular units including aplurality of energy sources and a plurality of fluid dispensers;energizing a set of energy sources from the plurality of energy sourcesto deliver energy at an intensity capable of disinfecting a surface ofthe object; and delivering, via a set of fluid dispensers from theplurality of fluid dispensers, a disinfecting agent into the chamber.

In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a plurality of modular units,in which each modular unit is (1) coupleable to at least one othermodular unit from the plurality of modular units and (2) includes anenergy source from a plurality of energy sources. A first set of energysources from the plurality of energy sources can be configured toprovide energy having an intensity capable of disinfecting a surface ofthe object when the surface of the object is disposed within apredefined distance from at least one of the plurality of modular units.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The skilled artisan will understand that the drawings primarily are forillustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of theinventive subject matter described herein. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale; in some instances, various aspects of theinventive subject matter disclosed herein may be shown exaggerated orenlarged in the drawings to facilitate an understanding of differentfeatures. In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer tolike features (e.g., functionally similar and/or structurally similarelements).

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an example of a disinfection system,according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2A schematically illustrates an example of a disinfection systemincluding modular units, according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2B schematically illustrates an example of a modular unit of adisinfection system, according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 3A-3C schematically illustrate different configurations of modularunits of disinfection systems, according to embodiments disclosedherein.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an example of a side panel of adisinfection system formed of modular units, according to embodimentsdisclosed herein.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D schematically illustrate different views of anexample disinfection system including modular units, according toembodiments disclosed herein. FIGS. 5A and 5B depict a top view of thedisinfection system, with a movable panel of the disinfection systemshown in two different configurations. FIG. 5C depicts a front view ofthe disinfection system. And FIG. 5D depicts a side view of thedisinfection system.

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an example disinfection systemincluding modular units, according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an example disinfection systemincluding modular units and capable of forming a sealed chamber,according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate two different configurations of energysources disposed on modular units of a disinfection system, according toembodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate two different views of an example energysource of a disinfection system, according to embodiments disclosedherein. FIG. 9A depicts a view of the energy source covering a surfaceof a modular unit of the disinfection system, and FIG. 9B depicts across-sectional view of a portion of the modular unit, showing theenergy source and other layers of the modular unit.

FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an example of a disinfection system,according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an example of a disinfection system,according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example of a disinfection systemincluding modular units, according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 13A and 13B depict different views of a modular unit of thedisinfection system shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 14A depicts an enlarged view of a portion of a modular unit of thedisinfection system shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 14B depicts an enlarged view of a portion of a modular unit of thedisinfection system shown in FIG. 11, with a portion of an outer housingof the modular unit removed to shown an interior support structure ofthe modular unit.

FIGS. 15A and 15B depict different views of the disinfection systemshown in FIG. 11. FIG. 14A depicts a side view of the disinfectionsystem, and FIG. 14B depicts a top view of the disinfection system.

FIG. 16 depicts a front view of the disinfection system shown in FIG.11, including an example of medical equipment disposed within thedisinfection system.

FIG. 17 depicts a perspective view of an example of a disinfectionsystem including modular units, according to embodiments disclosedherein.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an example of a disinfection systemincluding modular units, according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 19 is a front view of the disinfection system shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a back view of the disinfection system shown in FIG. 18.

FIGS. 21A-21D depict different modular units of the disinfection systemshown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart of a method of disinfecting using a disinfectionsystem, according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart of a method of assembly a disinfection system,according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 24 schematically illustrates a kit including modular units andother components of a disinfection system, according to embodimentsdisclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Systems, apparatus, and methods described herein relate to disinfectingstructures formed at least in part of modular units and/or components.Systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein can be designed todisinfect objects or areas using energy sources that emit light (e.g.,UV light) at distances and intensities capable of disinfecting varioussurfaces and materials and/or disinfecting agents (e.g., hydrogenperoxide, peracetic acid, electrolyzed water, atmospheric pressureplasma, polymeric guanidine, ozone, or combinations thereof) in amountscapable of disinfecting various surfaces and materials. Systems,apparatus, and methods disclosed herein can be designed to disinfect,e.g., reduce the count of microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses, etc.)from surfaces of objects, to various degrees, depending on requirements(e.g., set by a hospital or organization) and/or the nature or means ofdisinfection (e.g., the type of disinfection used, an amount of time forthe disinfection, the object being disinfected, the distance of theobject from the disinfecting source, etc.). For example, disinfectionsystems disclosed herein can be capable of disinfecting an object to aparticular level (e.g., cleaning, sanitizing, low-level disinfecting,high-level disinfecting, sterilizing), depending on the classificationof that object based on its risk of infection. Embodiments ofdisinfection systems can be designed to select a level of disinfectionbased on a type of object and/or area being disinfected and operate todisinfect accordingly.

Although embodiments of the present disclosure are described withspecific reference to systems and methods for disinfecting medicalequipment (e.g., gurneys, wheelchairs, intravenous (IV) poles, dialysismachines, etc.) or medical enclosures (e.g., hospital rooms, surgerysuites, diagnostic laboratories, etc.), it should be appreciated thatsuch systems and methods may be used to disinfect a variety of itemsused or contacted by the public (e.g., shopping carts, shopping baskets,strollers, railings, door knobs, etc.) and a variety of enclosures(e.g., kitchens, public or private bathrooms, cafeterias, airplanes,buses, etc.).

FIG. 1 is a high-level block diagram that schematically illustrates anexample disinfection system 100, according some embodiments.Disinfection system 100 includes a body 110 and one or more energysource(s) 122. Disinfection system 100 can optionally include one ormore reflective unit(s) 120, spray unit(s) 160, exhaust unit(s) 162,and/or sensor(s) 164.

Each energy source 122 is configured to emit energy that can be directedat objects disposed within a disinfecting area 125. Each energy source122 can be configured to emit light, such as, for example, UV light at awavelength of approximately 320-400 nanometers (nm) (i.e., UV-A light),UV light at a wavelength of approximately 290-320 nm (i.e., UV-B light),UV light at a wavelength of approximately 200-280 nm (i.e., UV-C light),and/or high-intensity narrow-spectrum (HINS) light (e.g., light at awavelength of 405 nm). In some embodiments, a first set of energysource(s) 122 can be configured to emit a first type of energy (e.g.,UV-B light) and a second set of energy source(s) 122 can be configuredto emit a second type of energy (e.g., UV-C light). Each energy source122 can include one or more mercury vapor bulbs or tubes, xenon gasbulbs or tubes, excimer bulbs or tubes, light emitting diodes (LED),light emitting nanoparticles, lasers, or other energy sources configuredto emit light. For example, energy source(s) 122 may include light bulbsthat are configured to emit at least 30 watts of UV energy (e.g., 36watts of UV energy). As another example, energy source(s) 122 mayinclude light emitting nanoparticles deposited or grown on a flexibleconductive layer, as further described below in reference to FIGS. 9Aand 9B. As another example, energy source(s) 122 can be configured toemit HINS light.

One or more energy source(s) 122 can be disposed within (e.g., removablyor permanently) or near a reflective unit 120, such that energy emittedfrom the energy source(s) 122 can be directed into a disinfecting area125 and/or an object disposed within the disinfecting area 125. Eachreflective unit 120 can be formed of one or more reflective surface(s)capable of reflecting energy emitted from the energy source(s) 122. Forexample, reflective unit(s) 120 can have a curved reflective surface(e.g., a hyperbolic reflective surface) that directs energy emitted fromthe energy source(s) 122 in multiple directions into the disinfectingarea 125. Alternatively, reflective unit(s) 120 can have a back surfaceand a plurality of reflective surfaces disposed off normal with respectto the back surface that direct energy emitted from energy source(s) inmultiple directions into disinfecting area 125. Reflective unit(s) 120can include reflective materials, such as, for example, mirrors,powder-coated materials or metal sheets, or Pebbletone™ and Hammertone™finishes.

Energy source(s) 122 can be configured to emit energy having anintensity at a predefined distance (e.g., 100 μW/cm² at 1 meter) that iscapable of disinfecting the surfaces of an object disposed within thatpredefined distance. In embodiments including reflective unit(s) 120,reflective unit(s) 120 can work in cooperation with energy source(s) 122to ensure that a sufficient amount of energy for disinfecting an objectis deposited on each surface of the object. Each surface of an objectdisposed within disinfecting area 125 can receive a collective amount ofenergy from various beams of energy (e.g., directly emitted by energysource(s) 122 and/or reflected via reflective unit(s) 120) that issufficient to disinfect the surface, i.e., sufficiently reduce oreliminate pathogens disposed on the surface.

Disinfecting area 125 can be disposed adjacent to and/or within body 110of disinfection system 100. For example, disinfecting area 125 can belocated within a chamber 124 defined by body 110, or disinfecting area125 can be an area that is adjacent to body 110. Body 110 can optionallydefine a chamber 124 for receiving an object requiring disinfecting.Chamber 124 can be sized to receive the object, and can include anopening 130 through which the object can be placed within chamber 124.The object can be, for example, medical equipment such as a gurney, awheelchair, a pole to support bags of fluid for intravenous delivery (anIV pole), a medical cart, a mobile or portable computer station, adialysis machine, an anesthesia machine, an electrocardiogram (ECG)machine, and/or other types of mobile medical items. Body 110 caninclude a wall, panel, and/or other structure capable of moving betweenan open configuration and a closed configuration to open and close theopening 130 of chamber 124. In some embodiments, chamber 124 can bedesigned to seal in energy and/or fluid, such that energy and/or fluiddeposited within chamber 124 cannot exit chamber 124. Such sealing canprevent energy and/or fluid within the chamber 124 from affectingsurrounding objects and/or persons, and allow use of certain types ofdisinfecting agents that may be harmful to surrounding objects and/orpersons. Alternatively, in some embodiments, chamber 124 can be designedas an open chamber. For example, disinfection system 100 may includewalls or surfaces that partially surround an open space (e.g., adisinfecting area 125). In such embodiments, any energy and/ordisinfecting agents used with the disinfection system 100 may be onesthat are not harmful to surrounding objects and/or persons. For example,a UV light source such as an excimer light source can be used todisinfect without objects in an open chamber without causing safetyconcerns.

In some embodiments, disinfection system 100 can be designed with or foruse with a conveyor unit or other type of transport unit configured tomove an object being disinfected through the disinfecting area 125. Forexample, disinfection system 100 can include one or more side panels orwalls that are directed at the disinfecting area 125, and a transportunit (e.g., conveyor belt) can be configured to move the object beingdisinfected through the disinfecting area 125. In an embodiment,disinfection system 100 can include two side walls and a top wall (eachformed of one or more modular units, as further described below) thatencircle a space for receiving objects, and a bottom wall with aconveyor belt positioned thereon for moving the objects through thespace. As objects are moved through the space encircled by the walls,the objects can be disinfected by one or more energy source(s) 122,reflective unit(s) 120, and/or spray unit(s) 160. An example of adisinfection system with a conveyor unit is described in more detailwith reference to FIG. 11.

Disinfection system 100 can optionally include a transporting element132. Transporting element 132 can be any combination of suitablecomponents configured for movement, such as, for example, a wheel, acaster, a rail, a skid, a sled, a track, etc. Transporting element 132can be provided along a bottom or base of disinfection system 100 andcan enable movement of disinfection system 100, e.g., within a medicalfacility. Suitable examples of disinfection systems includingtransporting elements are disclosed in U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2017/0340760, titled “System for disinfecting largerscale spaces and equipment,” filed May 23, 2017, the disclosure of whichis incorporated herein by reference.

Disinfection system 100 can operate according to one or moredisinfecting modes. Disinfection system 100 can be designed to vary thedisinfecting mode based on user inputs and/or sensed informationregarding an object, e.g., the location of the object relative to one ormore energy source(s) 122, the dimensions of the object, the type ofobject, the materials of the object, whether the object has hard or softsurfaces, the required level of disinfection associated with the object,etc. For example, disinfection system 100 can be configured to vary anamount of time of disinfection, use a subset of available energysource(s) 122, use specific types of energy source(s) 122 (when multipletypes are available), adjust the configuration and/or positioning ofreflective unit(s) 120, etc.

In some embodiments, disinfection system 100 includes spray unit(s) 160(e.g. fluid dispensers) for applying one or more agents (e.g.,disinfecting agent 190, neutralizing agent 192) to objects withindisinfecting area 125. Disinfection system 100 can use spray unit(s) 160to apply the agents to further disinfect and/or treat an object beingdisinfected. Spray unit(s) 160 can be configured to dispense the agentsin a liquid spray and/or a vapor/gas. In some embodiments, spray unit(s)160 can be adjusted (e.g., via processor 154 and/or control panel 150)to change a direction and/or spray profile of a sprayed substance. Forexample, spray unit(s) 160 can include one or more nozzles with openingsthat can be adjusted to vary an amount of liquid and/or vapor that issprayed, the profile of the produced spray, and/or a direction of theproduced spray. In some embodiments, spray unit(s) 160 can apply anelectrostatic charge to the sprayed agent to encourage droplets of theagent to spread out more evenly and adhere to the neutral or negativecharged surfaces of objects. In some embodiments, spray unit(s) 160 canbe connected to a source of pressurized gas that can be used to generateaerosolized streams of disinfecting agent 190 and/or neutralizing agent192.

In some embodiments, disinfection system 100 can be configured to useone or more energy source(s) 122 to disinfect an object, as well as oneor more spray unit(s) 160 to apply a disinfecting agent 190 and/or aneutralizing agent 192 to the object. By disinfecting with energysource(s) 122 and disinfecting agents 190, disinfection system 100 cantarget different types surfaces and/or different types of pathogens. Forexample, energy source(s) 122 capable of emitting UV-C light have beenshown to be effective at killing pathogens on hard surfaces, while adisinfecting agent 190 such as hydrogen peroxide has been shown to beeffect at disinfecting soft surfaces. Therefore, disinfection system 100may use both energy source(s) 122 and disinfecting agents 190 todisinfect an object having hard and soft surfaces. Disinfection system100 may run a first disinfection cycle using energy source(s) 122 thatemit UV-C light (e.g., a UV-C cycle) and a second disinfection cycleusing the disinfecting agents 190 (e.g., a vapor cycle), sequentially orsimultaneously. In an embodiment, disinfection system 100 can beconfigured for photocatalytic disinfection. For example, disinfectionsystem, via spray unit(s) 160, can apply a light-activatedphotosensitizer (e.g., titanium dioxide) to surfaces and use UV lightand/or electromagnetic radiation emitted by one or more energy source(s)122 to activate the photosensitizer and disinfect the surfaces.

Disinfecting agent 190 can include, for example, hydrogen peroxide,peracetic acid, electrolyzed water, atmospheric pressure plasma,polymeric guanidine, or ozone. Neutralizing agent 192 can be configuredto reduce degradation of the object caused by the use of a disinfectingagent 190 and/or a particular type of energy source 122. For example,neutralizing agent 192 can be applied before, during, and/or afteractiving the energy source(s) 122 and/or applying the disinfecting agent190 to treat the surfaces of the object being disinfected, such that theobject degrades less over time. Neutralizing agent 192 can also beconfigured to reduce the risk of harmful contact between a human and adisinfecting agent 190. An example of a suitable neutralizing agent 192can be water. Disinfecting agent 190 and/or neutralizing agent 192 canbe delivered as a liquid spray and/or vapor.

Disinfection system 100 can optionally include exhaust unit(s) 162configured to vent away air from disinfecting area 125 (e.g., to ventair out of chamber 124) and/or supply clean air to disinfecting area 125(e.g., to supply clean air into chamber 124). Exhaust unit(s) 162 can beused in conjunction with spray unit(s) 160 to vent away air and/orvapors carrying disinfecting agent 190 and/or neutralizing agent 192.When disinfection system 100 is used with spray unit(s) 160 and/orexhaust unit(s) 162, body 110 can define a sealed chamber (e.g., chamber124) such that air containing disinfecting agents, neutralizing agents,and/or other substances can be sealed within the chamber and removed viaexhaust unit(s) 162, without exposing a user outside of the disinfectingarea 125 to such air.

In some embodiments, disinfection system 100 includes one or moresensor(s) 164 for collecting information regarding components ofdisinfection system 100, objects within and/or near disinfection system100, and/or other information that may affect the operation ofdisinfection system 100. Sensor(s) 164 can be coupled and/or integratedinto a panel or wall of disinfection system 100 or another component ofdisinfection system 100 (e.g., an energy source 122, a reflective unit120, a spray unit 160, or an exhaust unit 162). Sensor(s) 100 caninclude, for example, motion sensors, image capture devices (e.g.,cameras), light sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, sounddetectors, ozone sensors, etc. For example, sensor(s) 164 can include atleast one motion sensor capable of detecting movement within and/or neardisinfecting area 125 to determine whether a user may be harmed byenergy, disinfecting agents, and/or other components of disinfectionsystem 100. In some embodiments, sensor(s) 164 can be configured todetect and/or determine information about objects within disinfectingarea 125. For example, sensor(s) 164 can include image capture devicesthat can capture images of objects within disinfecting area 125 anddetermine the object type, dimensions of the objects, distance and/orpositioning of the objects relative to energy source(s) 122 and/or sprayunit(s) 160, or other information regarding the objects. Alternativelyor additionally, sensor(s) 164 can include weight sensors, lightsensors, etc. located on a base or floor associated with disinfectionsystem, which can measure the weight, position, size, and/or orientationof objects within disinfecting area 125. Disinfection system 100 can usethis information to determine how to disinfect the objects. In someembodiments, sensor(s) 164 can be coupled to and/or integrated into anenergy source 122, reflective unit 120, and/or a spray unit 160, and beconfigured to monitor the operation of such components. For example,sensor(s) 164 can monitor temperatures and/or moisture levels associatedwith such components, which can be used to confirm and/or modifydisinfecting procedures.

In some embodiments, sensor(s) 164 can include a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) sensor, Quick Response (QR) reader, or other typeof suitable sensor for identifying a user of the disinfection system 100and/or objects placed within the disinfecting area 125. Such sensor(s)164 can be used to control access to and/or use of the disinfectionsystem 100, and/or to log information associated with use of thedisinfection system 100. For example, a RFID sensor can be configured toread a badge or other identifying card and/or device of a user to permitaccess by the user to the disinfection system 100. A RFID sensor or a QRreader can be configured to read a tag (e.g., a RFID tag or QR code)located on an object placed in the disinfecting area 125 to identify thetype of object. An onboard processor (e.g., processor 154, describedbelow) or another device in communication with the sensor(s) 164, e.g.,via a wired or wireless connection, can log the disinfections performedby the disinfection system 100. In some embodiments, sensor(s) 164 canalso detect when maintenance of the disinfection system 100 may berequired, e.g., when a sensor 164 detects that a particular energysource 122 may no longer be functional.

Disinfection system 100 can include a control panel 150 with aninput/output (I/O) interface 152. Control panel 150, via I/O interface152, can be configured to receive and process user inputs and/or monitorthe operations and functions of disinfection system 100. The controlpanel 150 can be electrically coupled to a processor 154, which can beused to control one or more components of disinfection system 100.Processor 154 can be any suitable processing device configured toexecute functions associated with disinfection system 100. For example,processor 154 can be configured to activate one or more energy source(s)122. In embodiments where disinfection system 100 includes reflectiveunit(s) 120, processor 154 can be electrically coupled to one or morereflective unit(s) 120 and be configured to move (e.g., rotate,translate, etc.) the reflective unit(s) 120 to control the directionthat energy is reflected, e.g., to target a surface of an object and/orspecific area within disinfecting area 125. In embodiments wheredisinfection system 100 includes sensor(s) 164, processor 154 can beelectrically coupled to one or more sensor(s) 164 and be configured toreceive information from the sensor(s) 164 (e.g., information regardingobjects within disinfecting area 125, one or more components ofdisinfection system 100, and/or an environment around disinfectionsystem 100). Processor 154 can be configured to select specificdisinfection modes (e.g., disinfection type or cycle), deactivate thedisinfection system 100 (e.g., in cases where a user may be harmed bydisinfection procedures), change a disinfection step, and/or provide analert or status update (e.g., an audio and/or visual alert, or anelectronic alert), based on the information received from the sensor(s)164. Processor 154 can be, for example, one or more of a general purposeprocessor, a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), an ApplicationSpecific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Digital Signal Processor (DSP),and/or the like. Disinfection system 100 can also include an onboardpower source (e.g., a battery) and/or be coupled to a power source(e.g., be plugged into a wall socket). I/O interface 152 can include auser interface with one or more components that are configured toreceive inputs and/or present outputs to users and/or user devices. Forexample, the user interface can include a display device (e.g., adisplay, a touch screen, etc.), an audio device (e.g., a microphone, aspeaker), a keyboard, a scanner or reader (e.g., a radio-frequencyidentification (RFID) reader, a near-field communication (NFC) reader,etc.), etc.

In some embodiments, disinfection system 100 can be connected to anetwork (e.g., a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), avirtual network, a telecommunications network) implemented as a wirednetwork and/or wireless network and be configured to communicate withother devices coupled to the network, e.g., another disinfection system100, a server, or other compute devices. Disinfection system 100 can beconfigured to receive and send information via the network, including,for example, information regarding the operation of and/or disinfectionsperformed by disinfection system 100. In some embodiments, disinfectionsystem 100, via the network, can be connected to a remote control panelor system through which a user can remotely control disinfections system100. In some embodiments, disinfection system 100 can be connected to acloud network that hosts one or more other applications that caninterface with disinfection system 100 to provide other service(s). Forexample, disinfection system 100 can be connected to a remote serverthat tracks the object(s) that have been disinfected by the disinfectionsystem 100, and can provide this information to administrator and/or forreporting purposes. In some embodiments, disinfection system 100 canalso report information regarding disinfected object(s) to cloud-basedapplications and/or devices that facilitate real-time updates to localstaff within a medical facility (e.g., updates at a computer and/orelectronic indicator tags on disinfected object(s)).

Disinfection system 100 can be a unitary structure, or disinfectionsystem 100 can be implemented as multiple structures located in thevicinity of one another. In some embodiments, disinfection system 100can be formed of modular units that can be assembled together to formdisinfection system 100, as further described below.

FIG. 2A depicts an example disinfection system 200, according toembodiments disclosed herein. Disinfection system 200 can be formed of aplurality of modular units. Disinfection system 200 includes side walls212, 214, a top wall 216, and a back wall 218. In some embodiments,disinfection system 200 can also include additional walls, e.g., a flooror bottom wall and/or a front door or wall (not depicted). Each wall212, 214, 216, 218 can be formed of one or more modular units. Forexample, wall 212 can optionally be formed of four modular units 212 a,212 b, 212 c, 212 d; wall 214 can optionally be formed of four modularunits 214 a, 214 b, 214 c, 214 d; and wall 216 can be formed of fourmodular units 216 a, 216 b, 216 c, 216 d. Alternatively, each of walls212, 214, 216 can be formed of a single modular unit. Modular units 212a, 212 b, 212 c, 212 d can be similar to one another and include thesame components (e.g., energy source(s), reflective unit(s), sprayunit(s), etc.) and/or also be similar to other modular units of otherwalls, e.g., modular units 214 a, 214 b, 214 c, 214 d and/or modularunits 216 a, 216 b, 216 c, 216 d. Each modular unit can be designed tobe interchangeable with one or more other modular units, e.g., modularunit 212 a can be interchangeable with any one of modular units 212 b,212 c, 212 d and/or other modular units, such as one or more of modularunits 214 a, 214 b, 214 c, 214 d, 216 a, 216 b, 216 c, 216 d.

Each modular unit can be manufactured and/or assembled at amanufacturing facility and transported to a location for onsite assemblyinto disinfection system 200. Transportation costs can be reduced bytransporting the modular units separately to an onsite location.Individual modular units can be dimensioned to fit through standardsized doorways and openings within a building, such as, for example, amedical facility. Each modular unit can also weigh and/or be dimensionedsuch that a human can directly lift and/or move the units, or usestandard moving tools to lift and/or move the units, such as, forexample, a dolly, a lift, a moving cart, etc.

Each modular unit can be coupled to the modular units adjacent to it viasuitable fastening elements (e.g., mechanical fasteners, magnets,adhesives, etc.). In some embodiments, modular units can includebuilt-in connectors for quick coupling and assembly, e.g., snap-onconnectors, magnetic connectors, etc.

While disinfection system 200 is depicted as a box-shaped structure, inother embodiments, disinfection system can have a different shape, e.g.,a spherical shape, a pyramidal shape, a cylindrical shape, etc.

FIG. 2B provides a schematic view of modular unit 212 a, which can besimilar to and/or the same as other modular units depicted in FIG. 2A(e.g., modular units 212 b, 212 c, 212 d, 214 a, 214 b, 214 c, 214 d,216 a, 216 b, 216 c, 216 d). Modular unit 212 a can include at least onereflective unit 220 and can optionally include one or more energysource(s) 22, spray unit(s) 260, and/or exhaust unit(s) 262. Reflectiveunit 220 can be similar to reflective unit 120, as described above. Forexample, reflective unit 220 can have one or more surfaces configured toreflect energy emitted by energy sources disposed on modular unit 212 aand/or other modular units (e.g., modular units 212 b, 212 c, 212 d, 214a, 214 b, 214 c, 214 d, 216 a, 216 b, 216 c, 216 d). When modular unit212 a is assembled in disinfection system 200, reflective unit 220 canbe disposed on an inner surface of wall 212, such that reflective unit220 can be configured to direct energy emitted by energy sources into achamber defined by walls 212, 214, 216. In some embodiments, reflectiveunit 220 can be adjusted, e.g., manually and/or automatically, to changethe direction that it directs energy into the chamber defined by walls212, 214, 216. Reflective unit 220 can have a concave shape (e.g., ahyperbolic shape) that can spread and reflect energy into the chamber,or have multiple reflective surfaces that are angled with respect to oneanother to spread and reflect light into the chamber. In someembodiments, reflective unit 220 can be implemented as a reflectivecoating that can cover a portion or all of an inner facing surface ofmodular unit 212 a. In other embodiments, reflective unit 220 can beimplemented as a one or more reflective surface mounted on beams orother support structures attached to an inside surface of modular unit212 a.

Energy source(s) 222 can be similar to energy source(s) 122. Forexample, each energy source 222 can be configured to emit energy, suchas, for example, UV light or HINS light. When modular unit 212 a isassembled in disinfection system 200, energy source(s) 222 can bedisposed on an inner surface of wall 212, such that energy emitted byenergy source(s) 222 can be directed into the chamber defined by walls212, 214, 216. In some embodiments, energy source(s) 222 can emit lightthat is predominantly UV-C light (e.g., at least 75% of which is UV-Clight).

While reflective unit(s) 220 and energy source(s) 222 are described withreference to a modular unit 212 a, one or more reflective unit(s) 220and/or energy source(s) 222 can be disposed on other modular units,e.g., one or more of modular units 212 b, 212 c, 212 d, 214 a, 214 b,214 c, 214 d, 216 a, 216 b, 216 c, 216 d, or on other surfaces ofdisinfection system 200 (e.g., back wall 218 and/or a bottom wall orfloor). Collectively, reflective unit(s) 220 and/or energy source(s) 222disposed on the modular units, walls, and/or other portions ofdisinfection system 200 can ensure that an adequate amount of energyreaches each surface of an object that is located within the chamber,such that the object can be disinfected using the emitted energy. Morespecifically, reflective unit(s) 220 and/or energy source(s) 222 can bedisposed in any suitable location, orientation, configuration, size,and/or number such that an object within the chamber defined by walls212, 214, 216 is exposed to energy at sufficient intensities (e.g., atleast 100 μW/cm² at 1 meter) for a sufficient amount of time to enabledisinfection.

Spray unit(s) 160 can be similar to spray unit(s) 160. For example,spray unit(s) 260 can be configured to deliver one or more agents (e.g.,disinfecting agents, neutralizing agents) into the chamber. When modularunit 212 a is assembled in disinfection system 200, spray unit(s) 260can be disposed on an inner surface of wall 212, such that spray unit(s)260 can direct one or more agents at an object located within thechamber. Spray unit(s) 260 can be configured to deliver the agents as aliquid spray and/or vapor. In some embodiments, spray unit(s) 260 can beconfigured to electrically charge droplets of the agent such that thedroplets are predisposed to evenly distribute and/or adhere to thesurfaces of an object within the chamber. Modular unit 212 a can includefluid connection(s) 227 that are coupled to spray unit(s) 260 and canprovide fluid communication between spray unit(s) 260 and a source of anagent (e.g., a fluid reservoir). Fluid connection(s) 227 can includeports and/or channels integrated into, coupled to, and/or coupleable tothe modular unit 212 a.

Exhaust unit(s) 262 can be similar to exhaust unit(s) 162. For example,exhaust unit(s) 262 can be configured to circulate air into and/or outof the chamber. For example, exhaust unit(s) 262 can be configured tovent air out of chamber, e.g., with a fan, by applying a vacuum orsuction, or other suitable means. Additionally or alternatively, exhaustunit(s) 262 can circulate clean air into the chamber, e.g., via a fan,air pump, or other suitable means. Exhaust unit(s) 262 can be coupled tofluid connection(s) 227, which provide an inlet and/or outlet path forair from the chamber. In some embodiments, exhaust unit(s) 262, viafluid connection(s) 227, can vent air through a filtration and/or airpurification system, which can clean and/or disinfect the air forrecirculation through other fluid channels and/or exhaust unit(s) 262back into the chamber.

Modular unit 212 a can optionally include electrical connection(s) 226.Electrical connection(s) 226 can be coupled to one or more of reflectiveunit(s) 220, energy source(s) 222, spray unit(s) 260, and/or exhaustunit(s) 262, to connect those components to a power source and/orcontrol unit (e.g., an onboard or off-board control unit, including, forexample, a processor and/or control panel). The control unit (notdepicted) can be used to control the operation of one or more ofreflective unit(s) 220, energy source(s) 222, spray unit(s) 260, and/orexhaust unit(s) 262. For example, the control unit can be used toselectively activate, move, and/or adjust one or more of one or more ofreflective unit(s) 220, energy source(s) 222, spray unit(s) 260, and/orexhaust unit(s) 262. In some embodiments, the control unit can becoupled to one or more sensors for detecting information about theobjects within chamber, the surrounding environment, and/or a user ofthe disinfection system 200.

Modular unit 212 a can include a connector 225, which can be used tocouple modular unit 212 a to other modular unit(s) (e.g., modular unit212 b or 212 c). In some embodiments, connector 225 can includeelectrical connection(s) 226 and/or fluid connection(s) 227, which canbe coupled to one or more of reflective unit(s) 220, energy source(s)222, spray units) 260, and/or exhaust unit(s) 262. Connector 225 can bedisposed on a side of modular unit 212 a, such that connector 225 can beconfigured to couple to a connector on an adjacent modular unit (e.g.,modular unit 212 b or 212 c) when the two modular units are attached toone another. In some embodiments, connector 225 can be designed as asnap-on connector that can engage with a corresponding connector locatedon an adjacent modular unit. Connector 225, via a network of connections(e.g., including additional connectors, electrical connection(s), and/orfluid connection(s)) through modular units, can be coupled to an airventilation system, an air filtration system, a source of disinfectingagent and/or neutralizing agent, a control unit, power source, etc.

While disinfection system 200 is depicted as having walls that can beformed of a single modular unit or, optionally, formed of four modularunits placed in a two-by-two arrangement (e.g., wall 212 being formed offour modular units 212 a, 212 b, 212 c, 212 d), other disinfectionsystems can include walls with different arrangements and/orconfigurations (e.g., shapes, sizes, etc.) of modular units. Forexample, FIG. 3A depicts a wall 312 formed of two modular units 312 a,312 b that are rectangular-shaped positioning in a two-by-onearrangement (i.e., with modular unit 312 a positioned above modular unit312 b). FIG. 3B depicts a wall 412 formed of four modular units 412 a,412 b, 412 c, 412 d that are rectangular-shaped and positioned in afour-by-one arrangement. FIG. 3C depicts a wall 512 formed of twomodular units 512 a, 512 b, each having a triangular shape and comingtogether to form a rectangular shaped wall. Different arrangementsand/or configurations of modular units can be used, e.g., to accommodatedifferently shaped components (e.g., energy sources, reflective units,spray units, exhaust units) and/or due to space limitations (e.g.,during shipping and transport to an onsite location). In someembodiments, modular units can be designed with longer coupling surfaces(e.g., for coupling to adjacent modular units), such that moreconnections between the two modular units can be accommodated and/ormore stability can be provided via the coupling.

FIG. 4 depicts another arrangement of modular units forming a wall 612of a disinfection system. As depicted, wall 612 is formed of threemodular units 612 a, 612 b, 612 c. Modular units 612 a, 612 b, 612 c cansimilar to and/or the same as one another. Modular units 612 a, 612 b,612 c can be arranged in a L-shaped configuration, such that wall 612can have ends with varying lengths. Specifically, wall 612 can have afirst end with a length L1 and a second end with a length L2, wherelength L1 is equal to the combined length of two modular units 612 a,612 b and length L2 is equal to the length of a single modular unit 612c. When wall 612 is assembled in a disinfection system, wall 612 candefine a chamber that has regions with varying height such that it canreceive a similarly shaped object. For example, the chamber can beconfigured to receive a gurney with an attached IV pole such that theheight of the IV pole can be accommodated by the taller region definedby modular units 612 a, 612 b. Other arrangements and/or configurationsof modular units can be used to construct disinfection systems capableof receiving objects having other sizes and/or shapes.

Disinfection systems having a modular design can have improvedcustomizability, adaptability, and/or serviceability. For example,individual modular units can be designed to be interchangeable with oneanother, and can be assembled together in a number of different ways toform differently shaped and/or sized disinfection systems. Depending ona user's disinfection needs and/or space limitations, the user canselect from several different types of modular units, and can assemblethose modular units in various ways to define differently sized andshaped disinfection areas and/or chambers. When a particular componentof a modular unit requires maintenance and/or repair, that modular unitcan be replaced without requiring the entire disinfection system to beserviced and/or replaced, thereby reducing repair costs and/or downtime.Additionally, when improvements to modular units are available (e.g., anew design of a particular modular unit becomes available), existingdisinfection systems can be outfitted with the new modular units byreplacing old units with the new ones without requiring a full redesignand/or replacement of the system.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D schematically illustrate an exampledisinfection system 700, according to some embodiments. Disinfectionsystem 700 includes a plurality of walls, i.e., side walls 712, 714, atop wall 716, a back wall 718, a front wall 719, and optionally a baseor bottom wall 736. FIGS. 5A and 5B depict a top view of disinfectionsystem 700, with the top wall 716 removed to show interior features ofthe system. FIG. 5C depicts a front view of the disinfection system 700,with the front wall 719 removed to show interior features of the system.And FIG. 5D depicts a side view of the disinfection system 700, with theside wall 714 removed to show interior features of the system.

Walls 712, 714, 716, 718, 719, 736 can define a chamber 724 sized toreceive objects for disinfection. While walls 712, 714, 716, 718, 719,736 are depicted as extending substantially perpendicular from oneanother to define a rectangular-shaped chamber 724, it can beappreciated that disinfection systems described herein can havedifferent configurations and/or shapes. For example, any one of walls712, 714, 716 can extend at an off-normal axis from back wall 718, andcan have a non-rectangular shape (e.g., a trapezoidal shape, atriangular shape, etc.). Walls 712, 714, 716 can define an opening 730through which an object can be received within chamber 724.

Front wall 719 can be movable between a closed configuration (asdepicted in FIG. 5A) and an open configuration (as depicted in FIG. 5B).Front wall 719 can move between the closed configuration and the openconfiguration, as shown via arrow B. Front wall 719 can be coupled toside wall 712 via a joint 734, and can pivot about joint 734 to movebetween the closed configuration and the open configuration. While frontwall 719 is shown as a single panel, in other embodiments, front wall719 can be formed of multiple panels and/or sections, and each panel canbe coupled to the same or a different side wall. An example of such anarrangement is described below with reference to FIGS. 11-15. In someembodiments, front wall 719 can be coupled to side wall 712 (and/orother side walls) using a mechanical connector other than a joint, e.g.,using an elastic material, a slider bar, etc. In some embodiments,disinfection system 700 can include a control unit that can electricallyoperate front wall 719, e.g., to move it between an open configurationand a closed configuration. Front wall 719 can be formed of a rigidand/or flexible material (e.g., metal, cloth, fabric, plastic, etc.). Insome embodiments, front wall 719 can be designed to be retractable, suchthat it can be retracted to expose opening 730.

When front wall 719 is in the closed configuration, front wall 719 canseal opening 730 of chamber 724 such that energy (e.g., UV light) withinchamber 724 does not exit chamber 724. In some embodiments, walls 712,714, 716, 718, 719, 736 can form an air-sealed chamber such that air(e.g., air including disinfecting agent and/or neutralizing agent and/orcontaminated air) cannot exit chamber 724. By sealing in energy and/orair, front wall 719 can reduce the risk of a user outside of chamber 724from being harmed by energy and/or air present within chamber 724. Whenfront wall 719 is in the open configuration, front wall 719 can allowaccess to opening 730 such that an object can be placed within chamber724 via opening 730.

One or more of walls 712, 714, 716, 718, 719, 736 can be formed ofmodular units. For example, wall 712 can be formed of four modular units712 a, 712 b, 712 c, 712 d; wall 714 can be formed of four modular units714 a, 714 b, 714 c, 714 d; and wall 716 can be formed of four modularunits 716 a, 716 b, 716 c, 716 d. In some embodiments, one or of morewalls 718, 719, 736 can also be formed of modular units, including somewalls being formed of a single modular unit.

Modular units 712 a, 712 b, 712 c, 712 d, 714 a, 714 b, 714 c, 714 d,716 a, 716 b, 716 c, 716 d can be designed to be interchangeable withone another. Therefore, each modular unit can have similar components asother modular units. An inner surface of each modular unit can includeat least one reflective unit 720 and at least one energy source 722.Additional reflective unit(s) 720 and/or energy source(s) 722 can bepositioned on the inside surfaces of walls 718, 719, 736, as shown inFIGS. 5A-5D. For example, an inner surface of wall 718 can include atleast one reflective unit 720 and, optionally, one or more energysource(s) 722. An inner surface of wall 719 can include at least onereflective unit 720 and, optionally, one or more energy source(s) 722.And an inner surface of wall 736 can include at least one reflectiveunit 720 and, optionally, one or more energy source(s) 722. In anembodiment, each of modular units 712 a, 712 b, 712 c, 712 d, 714 a, 714b, 714 c, 714 d, 716 a, 716 b, 716 c, 716 d can include at least oneleast one reflective unit 720 and at least one energy source 722, andeach of walls 718, 719, 736 can include at least one reflective unit720. While reflective unit(s) 720 and/or energy source(s) 722 aredepicted on a central portion of the modular units, it can beappreciated that reflective unit(s) 720 and/or energy source(s) 722 canbe located on any portion of an inner surface of a modular unit and/orcover an entire inner surface of a modular unit. And while reflectiveunit(s) 720 are depicted as surrounding energy source(s) 722, it can beappreciated that reflective unit(s) 720 and/or energy source(s) 722 canbe positioned in any suitable arrangement, including arrangements wherereflective unit(s) 720 and energy source(s) 722 each cover an entireinner surface of a modular unit. Further examples of these and otherarrangements of reflective unit(s) 720 and/or energy source(s) 722 aredescribed below with reference to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9A, and 9B.

Reflective unit 720 can be similar to other reflective units describedherein (e.g., reflective units 120 and/or 220). For example, reflectiveunit 720 can include one or more reflective surfaces that can reflectenergy (e.g., disinfecting light emitted by an energy source 722). Insome embodiments, reflective unit 720 can be implemented as a reflectivecoating and/or flat reflective surface. Energy source 722 can be similarto other energy sources described herein (e.g., energy source 122 and/or222). For example, energy source 722 can be configured to emit a lightcapable of disinfecting a surface of an object, such as, for example, UVlight and/or HINS light. Each energy source 722 can be disposed nearand/or within a reflective unit 720, such that energy emitted by theenergy source 722 can be reflected and directed into chamber 724 via thereflective unit 720. Other energy sources 722 and/or reflective units720 located on other modular units can also emit and reflect energy intochamber 724, such that a collective amount of energy sufficient fordisinfection is directed into chamber 724 and/or at an object disposedwithin chamber 724.

In some embodiments, one or more modular units 712 a, 712 b, 712 c, 712d, 714 a, 714 b, 714 c, 714 d, 716 a, 716 b, 716 c, 716 d, or walls 712,714, 716, 718, 719, 736 can be movable relative to other components ofdisinfection system 700. For example, wall 712 and/or an individualmodular unit 712 a, 712 b, 712 c, 712 d can be movable along an axis D;wall 714 and/or an individual modular unit 714 a, 714 b, 714 c, 714 dcan be movable along an axis E; wall 716 and/or an individual modularunit 716 a, 716 b, 716 c, 716 d can be movable along an axis F; and wall718 can be movable along an axis C. Additionally or alternatively, oneor more reflective unit(s) 720 and/or energy source(s) 722 can bemovable relative to a wall or modular unit. Movement of walls, modularunits, reflective unit(s) 720, and/or energy source(s) 722 can becontrolled by a control unit (e.g., a processor and/or control panel,such as processor 154 and/or control panel 150), and/or be movedmanually by a user (e.g., via a mechanical mechanism, such as a lever,and/or by directly pushing or pulling on an individual component).Walls, modular units, reflective unit(s) 720, and/or energy source(s)722 may be moved to position reflective unit(s) 720 and/or energysource(s) 722 closer to an object within chamber 724 to increase theefficiency of the disinfection process. For example, if a small objectis placed within chamber 724, one or more walls, modular units,reflective unit(s) 720, and/or energy source(s) 722 may be moved toreduce the distance between the object and reflective unit(s) 720 and/orenergy source(s) 722 and/or a size of the overall chamber 724, such thata greater intensity of energy is received at the surfaces of the object.Increasing the intensity of the energy received by the object can reducedisinfection time and/or improve disinfection efficacy.

While axes C, D, E, F are shown as being perpendicular to walls 718,712, 714, 716, respectively, one of ordinary skill in the art wouldappreciate that walls, modular units, reflective unit(s) 720, and/orenergy source(s) 722 can move in other directions, such as, for example,rotate about an axis and/or translated in angled directions.

Optionally, in some embodiments, disinfection system 700 can include atransporting element 732, such as, for example, wheels, casters, sleds,tracks, etc. Transporting element 732 may be disposed along a bottomsurface of wall 736. Transporting element 732 can be similar to othertransporting elements described herein (e.g., transporting element 132).For example, transporting element 732 can enable disinfection system 700to maneuver through spaces, including rooms within a medical facility.In some embodiments, transporting element 732 can be retracted intoopenings formed in wall 736.

In some embodiments, wall 736 can include a ramped surface 734 tofacilitate placement of an object into chamber 724 and/or removal of anobject form chamber 724. In some embodiments, wall 736 can also includeelements for guiding an object to a specific location within chamber 724and/or restricting movement of the object within the chamber, such as,for example, stoppers, tracks, treads, depressions, etc. These elementscan optionally be adjusted (e.g., via a processor and/or control panel,such as processor 154 and/or control panel 150) to accommodate differenttypes of objects and/or change a placement of an object within chamber724.

FIG. 6 schematically depicts a side view of an example disinfectionsystem 800, according to other embodiments disclosed herein.Disinfection system 800 can include similar components as otherdisinfection systems described herein (e.g., disinfection systems 100,200, and/or 700). Disinfection system 800 can include side walls(including a side wall 812), a top wall 816, a back wall 818, andoptionally a bottom wall 836. In FIG. 6, a second side wall similar towall 812 is not depicted so that an interior of disinfection system 800can be viewed.

At least one wall of disinfection system 800 can be formed of one ormore modular units. For example, side wall 812 can be formed of modularunits 812 a, 812 b, 812 c, 812 d; and top wall 816 can be formed of atleast two modular units 816 a, 816 b. Optionally, back wall 818 and/orbottom wall 836 can be formed of one or more modular units. Modularunits 812 a, 812 b, 812 c, 812 d, 816 a, 816 b can each include at leastone reflective unit 820 and at least one energy source 822. In someembodiments, back wall 818 can include a reflective inner surface 818 a,and/or bottom wall 836 can include a reflective inner surface 836 a.Reflective inner surfaces 818 a, 836 a can be implemented as areflective coating and/or material that can reflect energy emitted byenergy source(s) 822 into chamber 824. In some embodiments, innersurfaces 818 a, 836 a can also include an energy source configured toemit energy, such as, for example, light emitting nanoparticles. Furtherdetails regarding reflective surfaces including light emittingnanoparticles are described with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

Disinfection system 800 can include a flexible curtain or drape 819 as afront wall. Curtain 819 can be configured to move between an openconfiguration and a closed configuration. In the closed configuration,as depicted in FIG. 6, curtain 819 can cover an opening to chamber 824.In the open configuration, curtain 819 can be retracted (e.g., rolledup) via a wheel or pulley, and/or pulled aside using another mechanicaland/or electrical mechanism, to expose the opening to chamber 824 suchthat an object can be placed within chamber 824. Curtain 819 can includean inner surface 819 a that can be a reflective surface. In someembodiments, inner surface 819 a can also include at least one energysource, e.g., light emitting nanoparticles.

In some embodiments, one or more walls, modular units, reflectiveunit(s) 820, and/or energy source(s) 822 can be movable such that anangle or direction of reflective unit(s) 820 and/or energy source(s) 822can be adjusted and/or a distance of reflective unit(s) 820 and/orenergy source(s) 822 to an object be reduced.

FIG. 7 schematically depicts a side view of an example disinfectionsystem 900, according to other embodiments disclosed herein.Disinfection system 900 can be similar to disinfection system 700 (andinclude components that are similar to other disinfection systemsdescribed herein), but also include at least one spray unit 960.Disinfection system 900 can include side walls (including a side wall912), a top wall 916, a back wall 918, and a bottom wall 936. In FIG. 7,a second side wall similar to wall 912 is not depicted so that aninterior of disinfection system 900 can be viewed.

At least one wall of disinfection system 900 can be formed of modularunits. For example, side wall 912 of disinfection system can be formedof modular units 912 a, 912 b, 912 c, 912 d, and top wall 916 ofdisinfection system can be formed of at least two modular units 916 a,916 b. Modular units 912 a, 912 b, 912 c, 912 d, 916 a, 916 b can eachinclude at least one reflective unit 920 and at least one energy source922. In some embodiments, one or more walls can include a reflectiveinner surface, e.g., back wall 918 can include a reflective innersurface 918 a and/or front wall 919 can include a reflective innersurface 919 a.

At least one wall and/or modular unit of disinfection chamber 900 caninclude a spray unit 960. For example, modular units 916 a, 916 b caneach include spray unit(s) 960. Spray unit(s) 960 can be similar tospray unit(s) 160, as described above. For example, spray unit(s) 960can be configured to deliver substances, including, for example, adisinfecting agent, a neutralizing agent, and/or a photosensitizer.Spray unit(s) 960 can be configured to deliver such substances as aliquid spray and/or a vapor. Spray unit(s) 960 can be located on anyportion of an inner surface of a modular unit and/or wall. In someembodiments, spray unit(s) 960 can be adjusted (e.g., via a processorand/or control panel, such as processor 154 and/or control panel 150) tochange a direction and/or spray profile of a sprayed substance. In someembodiments, spray unit(s) 960 can apply an electrostatic charge to thesprayed substance to encourage droplets of the substance to spread outmore evenly and adhere to the neutral or negative charged surfaces of anobject within chamber 924.

Walls of disinfection chamber 900 can be designed to form a fluidicallysealed chamber 924 that can prevent energy and/or other substances(e.g., a disinfecting agent, a neutralizing agent, and/or aphotosensitizer) from exiting chamber 924. In some embodiments, sprayunit(s) 960 can be configured to deliver a single type of disinfectingagent. In other embodiments, some spray units 960 can be configured todeliver a first type of disinfecting agent while other spray units 960can be configured to deliver a second type of disinfecting agent, e.g.,in the case where different disinfecting agents may be required to killdifferent types of pathogens. In other embodiments, some spray units 960can be configured to deliver a disinfecting agent while other sprayunits 960 can be configured to deliver a neutralizing agent, e.g., inthe case where a neutralizing agent may be used to reduce thedegradation effects caused by the disinfection agent. In otherembodiments, some spray units 960 can be configured to deliver adisinfecting agent while other spray units 960 can be configured todeliver a photosensitizer, e.g., in the case where a photosensitizer anda disinfecting agent may be used, along with an energy source (e.g., aUV light source), to disinfect an object.

Disinfection system 900 includes at least one exhaust unit 962. Exhaustunit 962 can be similar to exhaust unit 162, described above. Forexample, exhaust unit 962 can be configured to circulate air into and/orout of chamber 924, including air containing a disinfecting agent and/ora neutralizing agent. Exhaust unit 962 can be disposed on an innersurface of bottom wall or base 936. Alternatively or additionally, oneor more exhaust units can be disposed on other walls and/or modularunits of disinfection system 900.

In some embodiments, one or more walls, modular units, reflectiveunit(s) 920, energy source(s) 922, and/or spray unit(s) 960 can bemovable such that an angle or direction of reflective unit(s) 920,energy source(s) 922, and/or spray unit(s) 960 can be adjusted and/or adistance of reflective unit(s) 920, energy source(s) 922, and/or sprayunit(s) 960 to an object be reduced.

FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9A, and 9B depict different configurations of modularunits having one or more energy sources and/or reflective units. FIG. 8Adepicts an example modular unit 1012 having two reflective units 1020and two energy sources 1022. Modular unit 1012 can be similar to any ofthe modular units described herein (e.g., modular units forming a partof disinfection systems 200, 700, 800, and/or 900). Each energy source1022 can be housed within a reflective unit 1020. Energy sources 1022can be implemented as light bulbs or tubes, such as, for example, amercury vapor bulb or tube, a xenon gas bulb or tube, etc. In anembodiment, each energy source 1022 can be configured to emit UV lighthaving an intensity of at least 100 μW/cm² at 1 meter. Each reflectiveunit 1020 can have a concave shape such that energy emitted from each ofthe respective energy sources 1022 can be directed and/or focused by thereflective unit 1020 toward a disinfecting area (e.g., into a chamber)and/or an object disposed in the disinfecting area. In an embodiment,each reflective unit 1020 can have a plurality of reflective surfacesthat are disposed off normal with respect to a back section of thereflective unit 1020, such that energy emitted by each of the respectiveenergy sources 1022 can be directed in multiple directions toward adisinfecting area and/or an object disposed in the disinfecting area.

Modular unit 1012 can be shaped as a panel with a width L3 and a lengthL4. The width L3 and the length L4 of modular unit 1012 can beappropriately sized for treating medical equipment and/or other objectswithin a medical facility (e.g., a hospital). Additionally, modular unit1012 can be dimensioned to fit through standard sized doorways andopenings in medical facilities, such that the units can easily be movedbetween rooms. In an embodiment, modular unit 1012 can have a width L3of approximately 25 inches and a length L4 of approximately 50 inches.Multiple modular units, such as modular unit 1012, can be stackedrelative to one another to form a disinfection system having dimensionsfor receiving various medical equipment and/or other objects. Examplesof different arrangements of modular units are described with referenceto FIGS. 11-16.

FIG. 8B depicts an example modular unit 1112 having a plurality ofenergy sources 1122. Energy sources 1122 can be arranged on a reflectivesurface 1120 acting as a reflective unit. Reflective surface 1120 can bea flat and/or curved surface that directs and/or focuses light toward adisinfecting area and/or an object located in disinfecting area.Reflective surface 1120 can be formed of a reflective material and/orinclude a reflective coating. Energy sources 1122 can be LEDs that areconfigured to emit UV and/or HINS light. Similar to modular unit 1012,modular unit 1112 can be sized to disinfect medical equipment or otherobjects located within a medical facility.

FIGS. 9A and 9B depict an example modular unit 1712 that includes alight source implemented as light emitting nanoparticles 1722. The lightemitting nanoparticles 1722 can be deposited or grown on a flexibleconductive layer. In an embodiment, molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) can beused to deposit nanowire heterostructures (e.g., GaN nanowires, AlGaNnanowires, InGaN nanowires) onto a conductive layer, such as, forexample, a metal foil or film (e.g., a titanium foil, a tantalum foil,etc.). The nanowires may grow in arrays along the conductive layersurface. When energized (e.g., excited), the nanowires may emit energyat wavelengths between 350-400 nm. FIG. 9B provides a cross-sectionalview of a portion of modular unit 1712, showing a layer of the lightemitting nanoparticles 1722 deposited on a conductive layer 1721 (e.g.,a metal foil or film). Suitable examples of light emitting nanoparticlesare described by Sarwar et al. in “Semiconductor Nanowire Light-EmittingDiodes Grown on Metal: A Direction Toward Large-Scale Fabrication ofNanowire Devices,” published Aug. 25, 2015, available athttps://doi.org/10.1002/smll.201501909, and “Nanowire LEDs GrownDirectly on Flexible Metal Foil,” available athttps://aip.scitation.org/doi/am-pdf/10.1063/1.4945419.

Optionally, a reflective layer 1720, such as a thin coat or film, can bedeposited on top of the light emitting nanoparticles 1722. Reflectivelayer 1720 can be a partially reflective and partially transparentelement. Specifically, reflective layer 1720 can be configured to allowenergy emitted by light emitting nanoparticles 1722 located belowreflective layer 1720 to pass through but reflect energy directed at thereflective layer 1720 in the opposite direction. Reflective layer 1720and light emitting nanoparticles 1722 can be positioned around adisinfecting area and/or a chamber such that light emitted bynanoparticles 1722 and/or reflected by reflective layer 1720 can bedirected at the disinfecting area and/or an object located in thedisinfecting area. For example, when modular unit 1712 is assembled in adisinfection system having a chamber, reflective layer 1720 and lightemitting nanoparticles 1722 can be located on an inside surface of themodular unit 1712 that faces the chamber such that it can direct energyinto the chamber and/or at an object located in the chamber.

Similar to modular unit 1012, modular unit 1712 can be sized todisinfect medical equipment or other objects located within a medicalfacility.

FIG. 10 depicts an example disinfection system 1600. Disinfection system1600 can include similar components as other disinfection systemsdisclosed herein (e.g., disinfection systems 100, 200, 700, 800, and/or900). Disinfection system 1600 can be formed of a plurality of modularunits (e.g., modular units 1612 a, 1612 b, 1612 c, 1612 d), but themodular units do not form an enclosure that defines a chamber. Instead,disinfection system 1600 can be a wall-mounted or free-standing systemthat can focus and/or direct light at objects located in a disinfectingarea (e.g., an object 1680). Modular units 1612 a, 1612 b, 1612 c, 1612d can be supported and orientated by one or more support elements 1616(e.g., a beam, a rod, a platform, etc.). Modular units 1612 a, 1612 b,1612 c, 1612 d can be similar to other modular units described herein(e.g., modular unit 212 a), and can include components such as aconnector, an energy source, a reflective unit, a spray unit, an exhaustunit, and/or a sensor.

Disinfecting area can be, for example, a section of a room that isclosed off using curtains or other barriers. Objects, such as object1680, can be transported into the disinfecting area via a transportdevice 1634, such as, for example, a moving track. Alternatively,objects can be placed in disinfecting area by a user and/or a mechanicaland/or electrical device (e.g., a robotic device).

Disinfection system 1600 can have a processor and/or control panel (notdepicted) configured to control the operation of disinfection system1600. Optionally, disinfection system 1600 can also have othercomponents, e.g., a source of disinfecting agent, neutralizing agent,etc., and/or a transporting element, such as described with reference todisinfection system 100 depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 depicts an example disinfection system 1700. Disinfection system1700 can include similar components as other disinfection systemsdisclosed herein (e.g., disinfection systems 100, 200, 700, 800, 900,and/or 1600), and additionally include or be designed for use with atransport unit 1790. Disinfection system 1700 can be formed of one ormore modular units. For example, disinfection system 1700 can includeside walls 1712, 1714 and a top wall 1716 that can be optionally formedof one or more modular units. For example, wall 1712 can optionally beformed of four modular units 1712 a, 1712 b, 1712 c, 1712 d; wall 1714can optionally be formed of four modular units 1714 a, 1714 b, 1714 c,1714 d; and wall 1716 can be formed of four modular units 1716 a, 1716b, 1716 c, 1716 d. Alternatively, each of walls 1712, 1714, 1716 can beformed of a single modular unit, two modular units, or any other numberof modular units. One or more modular units 1712 a, 1712 b, 1712 c, 1712d, 1714 a, 1714 b, 1714 c, 1714 d, 1716 a, 1716 b, 1716 c, 1716 d can besimilar to other modular units, e.g., include the same components (e.g.,energy source(s), reflective unit(s), spray unit(s), etc.).

Each modular unit can be manufactured and/or assembled at amanufacturing facility and transported to a location for onsite assemblyinto disinfection system 1700. Each modular unit can be coupled to themodular units adjacent to it via suitable fastening elements (e.g.,mechanical fasteners, magnets, adhesives, etc.). In some embodiments,modular units can include built-in connectors for quick coupling andassembly, e.g., snap-on connectors, magnetic connectors, etc.

As depicted in FIG. 11, disinfection system 1700 does not include afront wall or a back wall. Rather, side walls 1712, 1714 and top wall1716 define an open disinfecting area 1725. Disinfection system 1700 caninclude a transport device 1790 that transport objects through thedisinfecting area 1725. For example, objects can be placed on thetransport device 1790 on a first side of the disinfection system 1700and be transported through a first opening 1792 on the first side intothe disinfecting area 1725, and out through a second opening 1794 on asecond side of the disinfection system 1700. While the object is beingtransported through the disinfecting area 1725, the object can bedisinfected by one or more energy source(s), reflective unit(s), and/orspray unit(s) located on the modular units of the disinfection system1700.

The transport device 1790 can be any suitable device for moving anobject through an area. For example, the transport device 1790 can be aconveyor belt that extends along a bottom side of the disinfection unit1790. Alternatively or additionally, the transport device 1790 caninclude robotic components (e.g., robotic arms, manipulators, etc.)configured to couple to the objects (e.g., grab, magnetically couple,etc.) and move them through the disinfecting area 1725 (e.g., bylifting, pulling, etc.). In some embodiments, the transport device 1790can be designed to re-position an object (e.g., using tracks, flippers,manipulators, etc.) prior to or during movement of the object throughthe disinfecting area 1725.

Since the disinfecting area 1725 is not entirely sealed from thesurrounding environment, disinfection system 1700 can be designed foruse with energy sources and/or disinfecting agents that are not harmfulto surrounding objects and/or persons. For example, disinfection system1700 can include light sources that are excimer lamps that emit far UV-Clight, e.g., light having a wavelength of approximately 222 nm.

FIGS. 12-16 illustrate different views of an example disinfection system1200. Disinfection system 1200 can be similar to other disinfectionsystems described herein (e.g., disinfection systems 100, 200, 700, 800,and/or 900), and can include similar components as those systems.Disinfection system 1200 includes a plurality of walls, including sidewalls 1212, 1214, a top wall 1216, and a back wall 1218. Each wall 1212,1214, 1216, 1218 can be formed from two modular units. Specifically wall1212 is formed of modular units 1212 a, 1212 b; wall 1214 is formed ofmodular units 1214 a, 1214 b; wall 1216 is formed of modular units 1216a, 1216 b; and wall 1218 is formed of modular units 1218 a, 1218 b.

Disinfection system 1200 also includes two panel sections 1219 a, 1219 bthat can open and close. Panel sections 1219 a, 1219 b can be twobi-folding doors. When panel sections 1219 a, 1219 b are in an openconfiguration, as best shown in FIGS. 12 and 16, panel sections 1219 a,1219 b provide an opening 1230 into a chamber 1224 defined by walls1212, 1214, 1216, 1218. When panel sections 1219 a, 1219 b are in aclosed configuration, panel sections 1219 a, 1219 b seal off opening1230 such that energy and/or fluids (e.g., air, liquid, vapor) withinchamber 1224 cannot exit chamber 1224. Each panel section 1219 a, 1219 bcan fold into its open configuration (as shown in FIGS. 12 and 16) andunfold into its closed configuration. Panel sections 1219 a, 1219 b canbe mounted to a support frame 1238, which can be coupled to modularunits 1212 a, 1212 b, 1214 a, 1214 b, 1216 a, 1216 b. When panelsections 1219 a, 1219 b are in the open configuration, opening 1230 hasa length L15 and a height L16, as shown in FIG. 16. While two panelsections 1219 a, 1219 b are shown, one of ordinary skill in the artwould appreciate that other suitable components for closing and openinga chamber opening can be used, such as, for example, a single door thatcan pivot open and close, a single bi-folding door that can fold andunfold to open and close, a pair of doors that can pivot open and close,a retractable curtain, etc.

Each modular unit 1212 a, 1212 b, 1214 a, 1214 b, 1216 a, 1216 b, 1218a, 1218 b can be connected to adjacent modular units via one or moreconnectors 1225. Connectors 1225 can be attachable to and/or integratedinto one or more modular units. For example, connectors 1225 can includesnap-on components that can mate with one another to connect two modularunits together. Alternatively or additionally, connectors 1225 caninclude fasteners, adhesives, magnets, etc. that can adhere two adjacentmodular units to one another. In some embodiments, connectors 1225 caninclude electrical connections and/or fluid connections, which canconnect to electrical connections and/or fluid connections in adjacentmodular units such that a network of electrical connections and/or fluidconnections can be formed to connect one or more components of modularunits 1212 a, 1212 b, 1214 a, 1214 b, 1216 a, 1216 b, 1218 a, 1218 b topower source(s), fluid source(s), a control panel, a processor, and/orother centralized elements.

FIGS. 13A, 13B, 14A, and 14B provide detailed views of modular units1212 a, 1212 b of wall 1212. While not depicted in detail, other modularunits of disinfection system 1200 (e.g., modular units 1214 a, 1214 b,1216 a, 1216 b, 1218 a, 1218 b) can be identical to and/or similar tomodular units 121 a, 1212 b. Each modular unit 1212 a, 1212 b includestwo reflective units 1220 and two energy sources 1222. Reflective units1220 and/or energy sources 1222 can be similar to other reflective unitsand energy sources described herein. For example, each reflective unit1220 can have a reflective surface that can reflect energy emitted byenergy sources 1222 into chamber 1224. As depicted in FIGS. 13A, 13B,14A, and 14B, each reflective unit 1220 can have a hyperbolically shapedreflective surface that can be configured to distribute energy emittedby energy sources 1222 and reflect it into chamber 1224. Each energysource 1222 can be disposed within a reflective unit 1220. Energysources 1222 can include at least one light tube configured to emitdisinfecting light (e.g., UV light). Energy sources 1222 can beconnected to electrical connectors 1226 disposed within or adjacent toeach reflective unit 1220.

In some embodiments, additional reflective units 1220 and/or energysources 1222 can be disposed on an inner surface of a front wall (e.g.,panels 1219 a, 1219 b) and a bottom side of chamber 1214. For example,reflective material (e.g., a coating and/or flat sheet) can be placed onpanels 1219 a, 1219 b and/or a floor of chamber 1224 and function asreflective units 1220. Reflective units 1220 and energy source 1222,when assembled around chamber 1224 and operating together, can beconfigured to collectively deliver a sufficient amount of light at asufficient intensity onto the surfaces of an object within chamber 1224,such that the object can be adequately disinfected.

Each modular unit includes at least one removable cover or panel (e.g.,panels 1272, 1274) to allow reflective units 1220 and/or energy sources1222 to be inspected, repaired, or replaced. For example, FIG. 13Aprovides a view of modular units 1212 a, 1212 b with panels 1274removed, and FIG. 14B provides a view of a portion of modular unit 1212a with panel 1272 removed. Removal of any one of panels 1272, 1274 canexpose an internal structure of the modular unit and provide access toreflective units 1220 and/or energy sources 1222. The internal supportstructure can include one or more vertical support elements 1228 and/orhorizontal support elements 1278. A back portion 1226 of reflectiveunits can be mounted to one or more support elements 1228, 1278. In someembodiments, additional components (e.g., energy sources, spray units,etc.) can also be mounted directly to a support element. Panels 1272,1274 can be configured to protect reflective units 1220 and/or energysources 1222, as well as other internal components of the modular units.

In some embodiments, each modular unit can be easily detached from itsadjacent modular units and removed from the disinfection system 1200 forinspection, repair, and/or replacement. In some embodiments, removal ofa single modular unit does not compromise the overall structure ofdisinfection system 1200, such that a single modular unit can be removedwhile the remaining, assembled modular units remain in place, e.g.,supported by one another and/or surrounding support structure (e.g.,support frame 1238). Placement of a new modular unit (or the old modularunit after undergoing inspection and/or repair) can then be efficientlyaccomplished without requiring significant reassembly efforts.

FIG. 15A depicts a side view of disinfection system 1200, and FIG. 15Bdepicts a top view of disinfection system 1200. As identified in FIGS.15A and 15B, each modular unit 1212 a, 1212 b, 1214 a, 1214 b, 1216 a,1216 b, 1218 a, 1218 b can have a width L8, a length L9, and a thicknessL10. Two modular units can be stacked, one on top of the other, to formeach of side walls 1212, 1214 and back wall 1218, and two modular unitsplaced side-by-side can form top wall 1216. Accordingly, the length L9of the modular units can be equal to two times the width L8 of themodular units.

According to some embodiments, disinfection system 1200 can be sized toreceive medical equipment 1280, such as wheelchairs, IV poles, medicalcarts, mobile or portable computer stations, dialysis machines,anesthesia machines, ECG machines, and/or other types of mobile medicalequipment. To form a chamber 1224 and an opening 1230 that are sized toreceive standard-sized wheelchairs, portable computer stations, and/ormedical carts, modular units having a width L8 of approximately 25inches and a length L9 of approximately 50 inches can be used. Twomodular units can be stacked on each of three sides of disinfectionsystem 1200 (i.e., walls 1212, 1214 and back wall 1218) and two modularunits can be used for top wall 1216, such that a 50-by-50-by-50-inchenclosure can be formed.

Alternatively, modular units having a width L8 of approximately 25inches and a length L9 of approximately 50 inches can be arrangedtwo-by-two to form two side walls, two high to form a back wall, andtwo-by-two to form a top wall, such that a 50-by-100-by-50-inchenclosure can be formed. Examples of medical equipment that can bereceived in such an enclosure can include standard-sized gurneys,wheelchairs, portable computer stations, and/or medical carts. FIG. 17depicts an example disinfection system 1300 having such an arrangement.As depicted, each of walls 1312, 1314 can be formed of four modularunits (i.e., wall 1312 can be formed of modular units 1312 a, 1312 b,1312 c, 1312 d, and wall 1314 can be formed of modular units 1314 a,1314 b, 1314 c, 1314 d), back wall (not depicted) can be formed of twomodular units, and a top wall 1316 can be formed of four modular units1316 a, 1316 b, 1316 c, 1316 d. Disinfection system 1300 can be similarto disinfection system 1200, except for the different arrangement ofmodular units. Accordingly, disinfection system 1300 can have panelsections 1319 a, 1319 b, a chamber 1324, reflective units 1320, energysources 1322, connectors 1325, and a support frame 1338, similar tothose of disinfection system 1200. As depicted, disinfection system 1300can be sized to receive a piece of medical equipment, such as a gurney1380, within its chamber 1324.

Panel sections 1319 a, 1319 b can function as a door of disinfectionsystem 1300. Panel sections 1319 a, 1319 b can each be bi-folding doorsthat fold to expose an opening to chamber 1324 and unfold to close theopening. While two panel sections or bi-folding doors are shown in FIG.17, it can be appreciated that a single larger bi-folding door that isattached to one side of support frame 1338 can be used in thealternative.

Alternatively, modular units having a width L8 of approximately 25inches and a length L9 of approximately 50 inches can be arranged threehigh to form three sides (i.e., two side walls and a back wall) and twolong to form a top wall, such that a 50-by-50-by-75-inch enclosure canbe formed. Examples of medical equipment that can be received in such anenclosure can include standard-sized wheelchairs, wheelchairs withattached IV poles, IV poles, portable computer stations, medical carts,dialysis machines, and/or anesthesia machines.

FIGS. 18-20 illustrate different views of an example disinfection system1800. Disinfection system 1800 can be similar to other disinfectionsystems described herein (e.g., disinfection systems 100, 200, 700, 800,900, and/or 1200), and can include components that are structurallyand/or functionally similar to the components of those systems. Forexample, disinfection system 1800 includes a plurality of walls 1812,1814, 1816, 1818 that define a chamber 1824. Each wall 1812, 1814, 1816,1818 can be formed of one or more modular units.

Depending on the size requirements of walls 1812, 1814, 1816, 1818, themodular units used to form those walls can have specific dimensionsand/or configurations. For example, wall 1812 can be formed of two typesof modular units, e.g., a first type of modular unit 1810 a and a secondtype of modular unit 1810 b. Wall 1814 can be formed of the same twotypes of modular units. Wall 1816 can be formed of a single modularunit, e.g., the first type of modular unit 1810 a. And wall 1818 can beformed of two types of modular units, e.g., a third type of modular unit1810 c and a fourth type of modular unit 1810 d. Altogether, walls 1812,1814, 1816, 1818 can be formed of four different types of modular units1810 a, 1810 b, 1810 c, 1810 d. While four different types of modularunits are depicted in FIG. 18, it can be appreciated that any number oftypes of modular units can be used to form disinfection systemsdescribed herein.

Each of the modular units 1810 a, 1810 b, 1810 c, 1810 d can include aset of reflective units or surfaces 1820 and a set of energy sources1822. Reflective units 1820 and/or energy sources 1222 can be similar toother reflective units and energy sources described herein. For example,each reflective unit 1820 can have a reflective surface that can reflectenergy emitted by energy sources 1822 into chamber 1824. As depicted inFIGS. 18-21D, each reflective unit 1820 can have a hyperbolically shapedreflective surface that can be configured to distribute energy emittedby energy sources 1822 and reflect it into chamber 1824. Each energysource 1822 can be disposed within a reflective unit 1820. Energysources 1822 can include at least one light tube configured to emitdisinfecting light (e.g., UV light). Energy sources 1822 can beconnected to electrical connectors 1826 disposed within or adjacent toeach reflective unit 1820. While not depicted, it can be appreciatedthat additional reflective units and/or energy sources can be disposedon additional walls or surfaces of disinfection system 1800.

The four types of modular units 1810 a, 1810 b, 1810 c, 1810 d can havedifferent dimensions and/or configurations. Each modular unit 1810 a,1810 b, 1810 c, 1810 d can be designed to couple to adjacent modularunits via one or more connectors 1825. For example, connectors 1825 caninclude snap-on components that can mate with one another to connect twomodular units together. Alternatively or additionally, connectors 1825can include fasteners, adhesives, magnets, etc. that can adhere twoadjacent modular units to one another. In some embodiments, connectors1825 can include electrical connections and/or fluid connections, whichcan connect to electrical connections and/or fluid connections inadjacent modular units such that a network of electrical connectionsand/or fluid connections can be formed to connect one or more componentsof modular units 1810 a, 1810 b, 1810 c, 1810 d to power source(s),fluid source(s), a control panel, a processor, and/or other centralizedelements.

The modular units 1810 a, 1810 b, 1810 c, 1810 d are dimensioned suchthat they fit with one another to form a box-shaped disinfection system1800. For example, as shown in FIGS. 21A-21D, modular unit 1810 a can beL20-by-L22, modular unit 1810 b can be L20-by-L20, modular unit 1810 ccan be L22-by-L22, and modular unit 1810 d can be L22-by-L20, such thatthe modular units 1810 a, 1810 b, 1810 c, 1810 d form a chamber 1824having a length of approximately L20, a width of approximately L22, anda height of approximately L20 and L22. In an embodiment, L20 and L22 canbe less than about 50 inches. In an embodiment, L20 can be approximately48 inches and L22 can be approximately 36 inches. In an embodiment, L20and L22 are each multiples of a common value (e.g., 12 inches), and areat least equal to or greater than that common value and less thanapproximately four times that common value. In an embodiment, L20 andL22 can each be at least between approximately 12 and approximately 48inches. In an embodiment, L20 and L22 can be equal to one another.

While disinfection system 1800 is depicted as being box-shaped (e.g.,having a rectangular cross-section), it can be appreciated that othershapes and/or configurations of disinfection system 1800 can be used,e.g., for receiving different sized objections as further describedherein.

When disinfection system 1800 forms a chamber 1824 having dimensions ofapproximately 36-by-48-by-84 inches (e.g., when L20 is approximately 48inches and L22 is approximately 36 inches) with an opening 1830 ofapproximately 36-by-84 inches, disinfection system 1800 can be sized toreceive medical equipment, such as, for example, wheelchairs, IV poles,medical carts, computer stations, dialysis machines, anesthesiamachines, ECG machines, etc. Alternatively, different arrangementsand/or types of modular units can be used to accommodate other types ofmedical equipment. For example, multiple 36-by-36 inch modular units(e.g., modular unit 1810 c) can be used to form a smaller enclosure thatis 36-by-36-by-36 inches, which can be used to disinfect wheelchairswithout IV poles, computer stations, etc. As another example, two48-by-48 inch modular units can be arranged side-by-side to form theside and top walls of a disinfection unit such that a longer chamber ofapproximately 96 inches in length can be formed to receive longerequipment such as gurneys.

Disinfection system 1800 can include a bottom wall 1836, as depicted inFIGS. 18 and 19. Bottom wall 1836 can be formed of a signal unitarypiece or be formed of multiple pieces that couple together to form agenerally flat bottom surface for supporting objects within chamber1824. The bottom wall 1836 can have a reflective surface (e.g., forfurther reflecting and directing light energy toward an object beingdisinfected) or non-reflective surface. In an embodiment, bottom wall1836 can be a rigid and durable material, e.g., a metal such asstainless steel. The bottom wall 1836 of the disinfection system 1800can prevent energy and/or disinfecting agent(s) being delivered withinchamber 1824 from affecting (e.g., degrading, discoloring) a floor orother surface upon which the disinfection system 1800 is positioned.

Disinfection system 1800 can optionally include a front door or wall(not depicted). For example, similar to other disinfection systemsdescribed here, disinfection system 1800 can include a door that ishinged, rolling, folded (e.g., bi-folded), sliding, etc. The front doorcan be movable between a closed position and an open position. In theclosed position, the front door can prevent energy and/or disinfectionagent(s) within the chamber 1824 from exiting the chamber and affectingsurrounding objects and/or persons. In the open position, the front doorcan enable an object to be positioned within and/or removed from thechamber 1824.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart of a method 1400 for disinfecting using adisinfection device, such as any of the disinfection systems disclosedherein. An object or article (e.g., a piece of medical equipment) can beplaced in a disinfecting area, at 1402. Disinfecting area can be an openspace adjacent to a disinfection device and/or a space within a chamber(e.g., chamber 124, 724, 824, 924, 1224, and/or 1334) defined by adisinfection device. Optionally, the disinfecting area can be closed orsealed, at 1403. The disinfection device can be activated, at 1404. Forexample, a user can use his badge to turn on and activate thedisinfection device. Alternatively, a user located at a remote locationcan use a control panel to activate the disinfection device. Optionally,at 1406, the disinfection device, e.g., via sensors (e.g., sensor(s)164) and/or user inputs via a control panel having a user interface(e.g., control panel 150 having I/O interface 152), can identify thetype of article, e.g., the type of medical equipment. Based on the typeof article that is identified, or based on other information in puttedby a user (e.g., via the control panel and/or user interface), thedisinfection device can identify a disinfecting mode to use, at 1408.

At 1410, the disinfection device can perform the disinfecting accordingto the disinfecting mode. In some embodiments, the disinfection mode mayinvolve disinfecting using energy (e.g., UV light and/or pulses of HINSlight) and one or more disinfecting agents (e.g., disinfecting agent190). For example, a set of energy sources capable of emitting energy atan intensity capable of disinfecting a surface of the article can beenergized, and at least one disinfecting agent can be delivered to thedisinfecting area via a set of spray units.

One or a combination of disinfecting agents may be used: aerosolized orvaporized hydrogen peroxide, aerosolized or vaporized peraceticacid-hydrogen peroxide combination, aerosolized or vaporizedelectrolyzed water, aerosolized or vaporized cold atmospheric pressureplasma, or aerosolized or vaporized polymeric guanidine. Optionally,prior to and/or during the disinfection process, the disinfection devicecan move device components (e.g., reflective units, power sources, sprayunits, exhaust units, sensors, etc.) to perform the disinfection. Forexample, the disinfection device can move device components to positioncertain components closer to the article being disinfected, e.g., toincrease efficiency and/or efficacy of disinfection. Optionally, at1412, the disinfection device can perform neutralizing by applying aneutralizing agent (e.g., neutralizing agent 192), to reduce residualdisinfecting from degrading the surfaces of the article beingdisinfecting and/or to reduce the risk of harmful contact of thedisinfecting agent with a human after the article is removed from thedisinfecting area. Optionally, at 1414, the disinfection device, viasensors, processors, communication channels, etc., can log and/or reportdisinfecting data, such as, for example, the article that wasdisinfected, the user initiating the disinfection, etc.

FIG. 23 depicts a flow chart of a method 2000 for assembling adisinfection device, such as any of the disinfection systems disclosedherein. A plurality of modular units can be moved from a first locationoutside of an enclosed space (e.g., a room of a hospital) to a secondlocation inside the enclosed space though an opening (e.g., a doorway),at 2002. Each modular unit can be sized to fit through the opening. Themodular units can be assembled into one or more walls or panels, at2003. Optionally, at 2004, the modular units can be assembled into oneor more walls forming a structure that defines a chamber sized toreceive an object (e.g., a piece of medical equipment). In someembodiments, the modular units can first be assembled into a pluralityof walls, and the plurality of walls can be arranged to form thestructure that defines the chamber.

FIG. 24 depicts various components that can form an example disinfectionsystem 1500. The components depicted in FIG. 24 can be provided in akit, which can be delivered to an onsite location (e.g., a room in ahospital) for assembly at the onsite location. As shown, the componentscan include one or more modular unit(s) 1502. Modular unit(s) 1502 canbe similar to any of the other modular units disclosed herein, and caninclude similar components as those modular units. The components caninclude a control unit 1504, which can be used to control and operatedisinfection system 1500, once it is assembled for use. Control unit1504 can include, for example, a processor (e.g., processor 154) and/ora control panel (e.g., control panel 150). The components can optionallyinclude a power source 1506 and/or electrical component 1508 connectingother components of disinfection system 1500 to the power source 1506(e.g., modular unit(s) 1502 and/or components included on modularunit(s) 1502, such as energy sources, reflective units, spray units,exhaust units, sensors, etc.). Alternatively, the components provided inthe kit do not include a power source, but they include suitableelectrical components to connect one or more components of disinfectionsystem 1500 to a remote power source (e.g., via a power port).Optionally, the component can also include a disinfecting agent supply1510, a neutralizing agent supply 1512, and/or fluid delivery components1514 for establishing fluid communication between disinfecting agentsupply 1510 and/or neutralizing agent supply 1512 to one or more sprayunits disposed on modular unit(s) 1502. Optionally, the components canalso include support structure 1516, for supporting modular unit(s) 1502in a specific arrangement and/or coupling modular unit(s) 1502 to oneanother in a specific arrangement.

While various embodiments have been described and illustrated herein,those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety ofother means and/or structures for performing the function and/orobtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages describedherein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to bewithin the scope of the embodiments described herein. More generally,those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters,dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant tobe exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials,and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application orapplications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Thoseskilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no morethan routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventiveembodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood thatthe foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that,within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto;embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically describedand claimed. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to eachindividual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or methoddescribed herein. In addition, any combination of two or more suchfeatures, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if suchfeatures, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are notmutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of thepresent disclosure.

Also, various concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of whichan example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the methodmay be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may beconstructed in which acts are performed in an order different thanillustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, eventhough shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

As used herein, the terms “about” and/or “approximately” when used inconjunction with values and/or ranges generally refer to those valuesand/or ranges near to a recited value and/or range. In some instances,the terms “about” and “approximately” may mean within ±10% of therecited value. The terms “about” and “approximately” may be usedinterchangeably.

1. A kit, comprising: a plurality of modular units coupleable to oneanother to form a plurality of walls that collectively define a chambersized to receive an object, the plurality of walls including a top wall,a back wall, and a set of side walls, the plurality of modular unitsincluding: a first set of modular units coupleable to each other to forma first side wall from the set of side walls; a second set of modularunits coupleable to each other to form a second side wall from the setof side walls; and a third set of modular units coupleable to each otherto form at least one of the top wall or the back wall; and a pluralityof energy sources including at least one energy source disposed on eachmodular unit from the plurality of modular units, a set of energysources from the plurality of energy sources configured to provideenergy having an intensity capable of disinfecting a surface of theobject when the object has been received within the chamber.
 2. The kitof claim 1, further comprising a plurality of reflective surfacesincluding at least one reflective surface disposed on each modular unitfrom the plurality of modular units, each reflective surface from theplurality of reflective surfaces configured to reflect energy providedby at least one energy source from the plurality of energy sources, suchthat the energy can be directed toward the object when the object hasbeen received within the chamber.
 3. The kit of claim 1, wherein eachmodular unit from the plurality of modular units has a length that isless than a maximum length of the object.
 4. The kit of claim 1, whereineach modular unit from the plurality of modular units has a widthranging from approximately 10 to approximately 50 inches and a lengthranging from approximately 10 to approximately 50 inches.
 5. The kit ofclaim 1, wherein each modular unit from the plurality of modular unitshas a width of at least approximately 12 inches and a length of no morethan approximately 48 inches.
 6. The kit of claim 1, wherein each wallfrom the plurality of walls has a width and a length that are multiplesof a common value.
 7. The kit of claim 1, wherein: the first set ofmodular units includes four modular units coupleable to each other toform the first side wall, the second set of modular units includes fourmodular units coupleable to each other to form the second side wall, thethird set of modular units includes four modular units coupleable toeach other to form the top wall, and the plurality of modular unitsfurther including a fourth set of modular units including two modularunits couplable to each other to form the back ball.
 8. The kit of claim1, wherein the energy source includes at least one of: a mercury vaporlight source, a xenon gas light source, a light emitting diode (LED), ora light emitting nanoparticle.
 9. The kit of claim 1, wherein the energysource includes a light source capable of emitting ultraviolet C (UV-C)light.
 10. The kit of claim 1, further comprising: a fluid dispenserconfigured to dispense a disinfecting agent into the chamber; and anexhaust unit configured to vent the disinfecting agent out from thechamber.
 11. The kit of claim 10, wherein the fluid dispenser isdisposable on at least one modular unit from the plurality of modularunits.
 12. The kit of claim 10, wherein the disinfecting agent includesat least one of: hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, electrolyzed water,atmospheric pressure plasma, polymeric guanidine, or ozone.
 13. The kitof claim 10, wherein the fluid dispenser is further configured todispense a neutralizing agent, after dispensing the disinfecting agent,to reduce degradation caused by the disinfecting agent.
 14. The kit ofclaim 1, wherein each modular unit from the plurality of modular unitshas a surface that is configured to cooperatively engage a surface of atleast one other modular unit from the plurality of modular units suchthat a seal is formed between that modular unit and the at least oneother modular unit, the seal configured to prevent energy emitted by atleast one energy source from the plurality of energy sources fromexiting the chamber.
 15. The kit of claim 1, further comprising a powersource configured to supply power to the plurality of energy sources.16. The kit of claim 15, wherein each modular unit from the plurality ofmodular units includes an electrical connector configured to connect,via an electrical path, to the power source, such that the power sourcecan supply power to the at least one energy source disposed on thatmodular unit.
 17. The kit of claim 16, wherein the electrical connectorof that modular unit is disposed on at least one of: an edge of thatmodular unit and is configured to couple to an electrical connector ofanother modular unit from the plurality of modular units; a surface ofthat modular unit facing an interior of the chamber; or a surface ofthat modular unit external to the chamber.
 18. The kit of claim 1,further comprising a transport unit disposable within the chamber, thetransport unit configured to move the object into the chamber to bedisinfected by the set of energy sources and to move the object out ofthe chamber after being disinfected by the set of energy sources. 19.The kit of claim 1, further comprising at least one foldable panelsection configured to function as a door into the chamber, the at leastone foldable panel section transitionable between an open configurationin which the object can be received into the chamber and a closedconfiguration in which the chamber is sealed from a surroundingenvironment.
 20. An apparatus, comprising: a plurality of wallscollectively defining a chamber sized to receive an object, at leastthree walls from the plurality of walls each formed of a plurality ofmodular units, the plurality of walls including a top wall, a back wall,and a set of side walls, each modular unit from the plurality of modularunits coupleable to at least two other modular units from the pluralityof modular units; and a plurality of energy sources including at leastone energy source disposed on each modular unit from the plurality ofmodular units, a set of energy sources from the plurality of energysources configured to provide energy having an intensity capable ofdisinfecting a surface of the object when the object has been receivedwithin the chamber.
 21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the pluralityof walls further includes a bottom wall configured to support theobject, the bottom wall having a reflective surface configured toreflect energy provided by at least one energy source from the pluralityof energy sources, such that the energy can be directed toward theobject when the object has been received within the chamber.
 22. Theapparatus of claim 20, wherein the at least three walls each formed ofthe plurality of modular units includes the set of side walls, the topwall, and the back wall.
 23. The apparatus of claim 20, furthercomprising at least one foldable panel section configured to function asa door into the chamber, the at least one foldable panel sectiontransitionable between an open configuration in which the object can bereceived into the chamber and a closed configuration in which thechamber is sealed from a surrounding environment.
 24. The apparatus ofclaim 20, further comprising: a sensor configured to read informationassociated with a user; and a processor operatively coupled to thesensor, the processor configured to: provide access to the chamber inresponse to receiving the information associated with the user; activatethe set of energy sources to disinfect the object; and send informationindicating that the object has been disinfected to a remote computedevice such that the remote compute device can track the disinfection ofthe object.
 25. A method, comprising: moving a plurality of modularunits from a first location outside of an enclosed space to a secondlocation inside the enclosed space through an opening into the enclosedspace, each modular unit from the plurality of modular units (1) sizedto fit through the opening and (2) including an energy source from aplurality of energy sources; and assembling the plurality of modularunits to form an enclosure that defines a chamber sized to receive anobject, the enclosure including at least three walls each formed of atleast two modular units from the plurality of modular units, theplurality of energy sources being disposed within the chamber andconfigured to emit energy into the chamber to disinfect a surface of theobject when the plurality of modular units have been assembled and theobject has been received within the chamber.
 26. The method of claim 25,wherein the plurality of modular units are assembled to form theenclosure by: coupling each modular unit from the plurality of modularunits to at least two other modular units from the plurality of modularunits.
 27. The method of claim 25, wherein the at least three wallsincludes a top wall, a back wall, and a set of side walls.
 28. Themethod of claim 25, further comprising coupling at least one foldablepanel section to at least one modular unit from the set of modular unitssuch that the at least one foldable panel section is transitionablebetween an open configuration in which the object can be received intothe chamber and a closed configuration in which the chamber is sealedfrom a surrounding environment.
 29. The method of claim 25, wherein theplurality of modular units are assembled over a bottom wall, the bottomwall having a reflective surface that is disposed within the chamber andconfigured to reflect energy emitted by at least one energy source fromthe plurality of energy sources when the plurality of modular units havebeen assembled over the bottom wall.
 30. The method of claim 25, whereinthe object is at least one of: a bed, a gurney, a wheelchair, anintravenous pole, a cart, a mobile computer station, a dialysis machine,or an anesthesia machine.